The base.
Your story.
Every artwork we create begins with your idea or starting point.
TIJDSBEELD
(Sign of the Times, Zeitbild, Image d’une époque…)
BASE2545 / Tijdsbeeld
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With ‘Tijdsbeeld’, BASE2545 brings together contemporary ideas from the worlds of thought, writing, music, science, art and journalism with the craftsmanship of traditional trades. Each ‘Tijdsbeeld’ begins with a thought or reflection by a contemporary thinker, which is translated by a craftsperson into a tangible work.
These works are not illustrations of a text or theory, rather, they emerge from a dialogue between idea, material and craftsmanship. The making process, often slow, attentive and labour-intensive, gives our ‘Tijdsbeelden’ a strong physical presence. The result is a series of objects that can be read both intellectually and sensorially, inviting people to look, sometimes to touch, and to reflect.
‘Tijdsbeeld’ is a long-term project. Between 2025 and 2045, BASE2545 aims to create a series of works that, over twenty years, will form a material archive of the questions and sensibilities of our time.
Private individuals, organisations and companies who wish to initiate their own Tijdsbeeld can contact BASE2545 to explore a collaboration.
FROM IDEA TO ARTWORK
BASE2545 / From idea to artwork
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A sculpture, photograph or mural, but also a soundscape, a text piece, personalized wallpaper, or a custom-made comic, nothing is impossible: at BASE2545 we translate your story into a unique artwork, created by the hands of our artisans and artists.
In a world of mass production and fleeting trends, we deliberately choose uniqueness and craftsmanship. True craft is more than manual skill, it is an ode to timeless design, to materials with character, and to human mastery that transcends generations.
With BASE2545, you do not simply own a work that enriches your interior, garden, or business, but above all a creation that makes your personal story visible.
Hence, BASE2545: a unique project that, between 2025 and 2045, creates an image of the time on behalf of individuals, companies, and public institutions, carried by the knowledge and expertise of our craftsmen.
BASE2545 translates our customers’ ideas and wishes into sketches and unique creations. With the expertise of our craftsmen, we realise customised work, from small objects to sculptures and tapestries, from pavilions to light installations, each with its own character.
BASE2545
Collectors Circle
BASE2545 / Collectors Circle
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The BASE2545 Collectors Circle brings together people and organisations who not only value the Tijdsbeelden, but actively help make them possible. It is an engaged circle of private buyers, collectors, businesses and cultural partners who are helping to build a material archive of our time.
Their commitment enables new Tijdsbeelden to be created, exceptional works in which contemporary voices from our society enter into dialogue with artists and master craftspeople. Works made today that will continue to speak tomorrow.
At least twice a year, we bring the Collectors Circle together for special encounters. We visit exhibitions and studios, offer behind-the-scenes access to new Tijdsbeelden and share the stories that precede them. In addition, you will receive our Beeldschrift twice a year, offering new perspectives on art, craftsmanship and the collection as it takes shape.
Become part of the Collectors Circle
As a member, you will have access to:
- at least two special encounters each year, including guided exhibition visits, studio visits and exclusive behind-the-scenes previews of new Tijdsbeelden
- the twice-yearly Beeldschrift, featuring stories about the voices, makers, materials and ideas behind our Tijdsbeelden
- priority access to the presentation and acquisition of new Tijdsbeelden
You can join the BASE2545 Collectors Circle at any time, from €490 per year. You can also opt for a duo membership at €690 per year for two people. Businesses and organisations are equally welcome to join, allowing several employees or guests to take part in the activities.
Not a member, but still curious? A selection of activities can also be booked individually.
Program 2026.
TEAM
BASE2545 / Team
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Christoph Ruys and Nick Van Heck are the initiators of BASE2545.
Christoph Ruys previously served as Professor of the History of Photography and Contemporary Visual Culture at LUCA School of Arts in Brussels. He was also Director of the PhotoMuseum Antwerp and the Fashion Museum Antwerp, and acted as senior publisher at Ludion Art Books. Today, his focus lies in BASE254, curating exhibitions and writing, where he continues to explore and translate visual culture into meaningful narratives.
Nick Van Heck brings his background as a breakthrough architect into a broader artistic and conceptual field. His work has long shown how creativity and imagination, principles often rooted in the arts, can open new perspectives for organizations. With BASE2545, he extends this vision, blending artistic sensibility with human and entrepreneurial creativity.
Together, they shape BASE2545 as a space where craftsmanship, imagination and personal stories converge into an image of the time 2025 till 2045, created in collaboration with around forty dedicated artisans and makers.